The BMW i8 is like a Volt on steroids

Six figures of technological fury.

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The production 2014 BMW i8 has finally been unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show after years teasing. A Chevy Volt on steroids, the i8 is BMW's latest sports car and features pretty much every powertrain technology short of fuel cells or steam. Through the road all wheel drive is delivered via electric motor with two speed transmission up front and a turbo three-cylinder with a starter-generator and a six speed transmission at the rear. In the middle is a 7.2 kWh battery capable of all electric trips of 22 miles and speeds of up to 70 mph. Sport mode delivers 0-60 sprints in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph in classic Germanic fashion. Much of that performance is possible because of intensive use of carbon fiber for the car's passenger cell and aluminum front and rear subframes and chassis components. At just 3285 lbs, the i8 is remarkably light for a hybrid. The low-weight makes the expected 90+ mpge possible.

With such a public development cycle, the i8's final styling direction was essentially the last piece of the puzzle. A pair of dramatic flying buttresses at the rear is the car's most dramatic flourish and act as passive heat extractors for the engine as well as conceal the high-mounted turn signals under the edge. Highly sculpted side panels, a broad, although non-functional grille ,and high-contrast graphical elements combine for a futuristic, aggressive look. The i8 will hit the market in the beginning of 2014 with an easy six figure price tag.